In this communication networks degree, you’ll become an expert in fiber-optic and photonic communications, wireless communications, and network design and management as you lead the ever-changing telecommunications industry.

Communication is an ever changing industry, with new services and products being created and offered through the internet, mobility via wireless technology, extreme capacity created by fiber optics, as well as the evolution of policy and regulation. These are all shaping the telecommunication industry and networks of the future.

The MS in communication networks develops an advanced level of skill and knowledge needed by the future leaders of the telecommunications industry. This program is designed for individuals who seek advancement into managerial roles in the dynamic, evolving communications environment.

Options

To help students achieve the level of expertise they are seeking, the program offers three options: fiber-optic and photonic communications, wireless communications, and network design and management. Each was designed to develop advanced knowledge in a specialty area. Alternatively, students may choose to not pursue a program option. Instead, they may select specific electives from a number or RIT's graduate programs to achieve more specific career goals.

Communication Networks (thesis option), MS degree, typical course sequence
Course    Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
TCET-601*    
Programming & Problem Solving in Telecommunications
3
TCET-715    Converged Network Concepts    3
TCET-740    Fiber Optic Communications    2
TCET-741    Fiber Optic Communications Lab    1
TCET-751    Wireless Communications    3
GRCS-701    Research Methods    3
     
Electives
12
Second Year
TCET-788    Thesis Planning    3
TCET-790    Thesis    3
Total Semester Credit Hours    
30
 

Communication Networks (graduate project option), MS degree, typical course sequence
Course    Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
TCET-601*    
Programming & Problem Solving in Telecommunications
3
TCET-715    Converged Network Concepts    3
TCET-740    Fiber Optic Communications    2
TCET-741    Fiber Optic Communications Lab    1
TCET-751    Wireless Communications    3
GRCS-701    Research Methods    3
     
Electives
12
Second Year
TCET-797    Graduate Project    3
     
Elective
3
Total Semester Credit Hours    
30
 

Communication Networks (comprehensive exam option), MS degree, typical course sequence
Course    Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
TCET-601*    
Programming & Problem Solving in Telecommunications
3
TCET-715    Converged Network Concepts    3
TCET-740    Fiber Optic Communications    2
TCET-741    Fiber Optic Communications Lab    1
TCET-751    Wireless Communications    3
GRCS-701    Research Methods    3
     
Electives
12
Second Year
TCET-795    
TCET Comprehensive Exam
0
     
Electives
6
Total Semester Credit Hours    
30
* TCET-601 is a bridge course that can be waived by qualification exam. Credits for course or waiver do not count toward degree.

Students must use the curriculum electives to complete at least 9 credits from a list of courses approved by the faculty to earn an option. Students may complete courses listed in any option or choose courses from a list of approved elective courses to complete the required number of electives. A student is not required to complete any option but may pick and choose courses that fulfill their educational objectives from any of the listed options of approved elective courses. The currently-approved courses by option are:

Options
Fiber Optic and Photonic Communications Option
Course
Choose three from the list below for 9 credits
   TCET-745       Advanced Fiber-Optic Communications
   TCET-748       Fiber Optic Test & Measurement
   EEEE-771       Optoelectronics
   MFET-655       Surface Mount Electronics Manufacturing
Network Design and Management Option
Course
Choose three from the list below for 9 credits
   TCET-620       Applied Machine Learning
   TCET-723       Telecommunications Network Engineering
   TCET-747       Next Generation Networks
   TCET-760       Network Planning and Design
Wireless Communications Option
Course
All courses required for 9 credits
   TCET-750       Wireless Systems Regulation
   TCET-752       Advanced Wireless Communication
   TCET-753       Wireless Networks

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission to the MS program in communications networks, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

• Complete an online graduate application. Refer to Graduate Admission Deadlines and Requirements for information on application deadlines, entry terms, and more.
• Submit copies of official transcript(s) (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work, including any transfer credit earned.
• Hold a baccalaureate degree (or US equivalent) from an accredited university or college in engineering technology, engineering, or a related area.
• Recommended minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent).
• Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Two letters of recommendation are required. Refer to Application Instructions and Requirements for additional information.
• Not all programs require the submission of scores from entrance exams (GMAT or GRE). Please refer to the Graduate Admission Deadlines and Requirements page for more information.
• Submit a personal statement of educational objectives. Refer to Application Instructions and Requirements for additional information.
• International applicants whose native language is not English must submit official test scores from the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Students below the minimum requirement may be considered for conditional admission. Refer to Graduate Admission Deadlines and Requirements for additional information on English requirements. International applicants may be considered for an English test requirement waiver. Refer to Additional Requirements for International Applicants to review waiver eligibility.

Tuition fee-2 years1,06,000

Total fee-2 years1,44,000